UK & World News

Neknomination Suspected In Two Further Deaths

Two men who died in the UK at the weekend were believed to be playing the drinking game Neknomination.

The first deaths in the UK linked to the craze come after two men in Ireland, Jonny Byrne and Ross Cummings, died earlier this month apparently taking part in the game.

Neknomination sees players film themselves downing various amounts and types of alcohol and daring each other to do stunts, then nominating someone to continue the game. They then post the video online.

Participants are often dared to outdo the exploits of those who nominated them, with some players filmed consuming alcohol along with dog food, engine oil and live goldfish.

Isaac Richardson worked at Hostel Ordance in Woolwich, south London, and was drinking in the pub downstairs when he died, an employee at the hostel told Sky News.

Mr Richardson reportedly drank a cocktail of wine, whisky, vodka and lager before collapsing early on Sunday.

His death comes as South Wales Police say they are investigating whether Neknomination also played a part in the death of a 29-year-old in Cardiff.

Officers and paramedics were called to the Rumney area early on Sunday after receiving reports of a man collapsing while taking part in Neknomination.

The man has been named locally as Stephen Brooks.

A police spokesman said: "Officers investigating his death on behalf of HM Coroner have received information regarding the so-called neck and nominate game.

"Inquiries are continuing and a post-mortem is taking place."

A dedicated Facebook page set up by friends described Mr Brooks as "one in million" and a "true friend".

Friend Liam Kitchener expressed his shock on Twitter, writing: "Madness how I only seen you 3 days ago."

Another Twitter user Jack Stephens said: "Survives an axe in the head and dies over a poxy drink RIP Brooksy."

Neknomination is thought to have originated in Australia but has spread quickly around the world through social media.

Mr Byrne, 19, drowned after drinking a pint and jumping into the River Barrow in Carlow on February 1.

Earlier that day, Mr Cummings, a 22-year-old DJ, died when he was playing the game in Dublin's city centre.

Mr Byrne's brother Patrick took to Facebook, saying: "If people have any decency and respect they will refrain from any more of this stupid neck nomination ****".

Alcohol Concern chief executive Eric Appleby said: "It is devastating for family and friends to lose someone in this way.

"This lethal 'game' shows just how hard we have to work to de-normalise binge-drinking among young people.

"But it's not just about young people. They take their cues from society's attitude to drinking and it's this we have to change for all our sakes."